<C>Height:</C> 18 to 19 inches (male); 17 to 18 inches (female).
<C>Weight:</C> 35 to 40 pounds (male); 30 to 35 (female).
<C>Size:</C> Medium.
<C>Availability:</C> May take some effort to find.
<b>History:</> The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was used as a farm dog, herder, and hunter of small game and vermin in his country of origin, Ireland. Though it is probably one of the oldest Irish breeds, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was first imported to the United States in 1946 and officially recognized by the AKC in 1973.
<b>Description:</> The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium sized, compact and squarely proportioned dog. The unique soft, silky, wheaten coat is wavy and does not shed. The head is shaped like a rectangle, rather long, with a strong muzzle and defined stop. The ears are V-shaped and fold forward level with the skull. The teeth should form a scissors or level bite. The almond-shaped eyes are brown or reddish-brown, and the nose is large and black. The strong back forms a level topline. The front legs are straight, with plenty of bone. Dewclaws should be removed. The feet are round with black pads and dark nails. The tail is docked and carried upright.
<b>Notes:</> The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is increasing in popularity and is known in most areas of the U.S., but still requires some calling around to locate a breeder. The unusual coat needs frequent attention to avoid mats, as well as quarterly scissoring. Puppies are born dark, but lighten to the final adult wheaten color by about two years of age. Prone to flea allergies. Buy only from OFA and CERF-certified stock.
<b>Personality:</> An alert and happy animal, graceful, strong and well-coordinated. A playful and friendly terrier. A puppy throughout his life. Amiable. Easy-going and self- confident. Though not as aggressive as many other terriers, males may be combative with other male dogs if challenged. Soft Coated Wheatens should be well socialized with other dogs while they are young puppies.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Excellent with children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Loves everyone.
<C>Trainability:</C> Slightly difficult to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Needs people a lot.
<C>Dominance:</C> Moderate.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Not generally dog-aggressive.
<C>Noise:</C> Not a barker.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Extensive grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> Skilled trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Medium long coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Very light.
<C>Docking:</C> The tail is customarily docked.
<C>Exercise:</C> Moderate exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> An excellent jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Moderately active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Good for apartment living.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> A small yard is sufficient.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
<b>Talents:</> hunting, tracking, watchdog, guarding, agility, and performing tricks.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> SOFT-COATED WHEATEN TERRIER
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
